Things to do in Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Discover the best attractions and experiences Nouvelle-Aquitaine has to offer
Historic Monuments
Nouvelle-Aquitaine is studded with medieval fortresses, walled towns and coastal citadels that narrate centuries of history.
Château de Beynac
A towering medieval fortress perched above the Dordogne valley with well-preserved interiors and sweeping views.
Château de Castelnaud-la-Chapelle
Picturesque fortress housing an impressive collection of medieval arms and weapons.
Tour Saint-Nicolas (La Rochelle)
One of La Rochelle's historic towers guarding the old port and offering panoramic harbour views.
Tour de la Chaîne (La Rochelle)
A coastal fortress tower that completes La Rochelle's defensive trio and rewards climbers with striking vistas.
Museums
From prehistoric art to modern masterpieces, the region’s museums cover ancient to contemporary highlights.
Musée d'Aquitaine
A broad history museum in Bordeaux tracing regional and national stories from prehistory to modern times.
CAPC musée d'art contemporain
A leading contemporary art museum housed in a former warehouse on Bordeaux’s quay.
Musée national de la Préhistoire (Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil)
Exhibits and artifacts that illuminate the region’s rich prehistory and cave art heritage.
Religious Monuments
Gothic cathedrals, monastic ruins and sacred halls dot the landscape of this faith-filled region.
Cathédrale Saint-André de Bordeaux
A grand Gothic cathedral with a commanding presence in the heart of Bordeaux.
Basilique Saint-Michel de Bordeaux
A striking basilica known for its blend of Renaissance and Gothic elements.
Église monolithe de Saint-Émilion
Impressive monolithic church carved into the limestone hillside in the village of Saint-Émilion.
National & Theme Parks
Protected landscapes showcase the region’s diverse ecosystems, from pine forests to river valleys and coastal dunes.
Parc naturel régional des Landes de Gascogne
Expansive pine forests, heathland and sandy shores along the Atlantic coast.
Parc naturel régional Périgord-Limousin
Rugged countryside with rivers, caves and traditional villages, perfect for outdoorsy explorations.
Neighborhoods
Dive into the character of each city through its historic districts and market-filled lanes.
Saint-Pierre (Bordeaux)
Historic heart of Bordeaux with narrow streets, markets and atmospheric squares.
Chartrons (Bordeaux)
Riverside district known for wine shops, antique merchants and lively cafés.
La Bastide (Bordeaux)
Left-bank neighborhood offering green squares, markets and scenic river views.
Free Things to Do
Many of the region’s best experiences are accessible without an entry fee.
Promenade le long de la Garonne, Bordeaux
Stroll along the riverfront and watch boats drift by in the heart of the city.
Vieux Port stroll, La Rochelle
A scenic walk around the old harbor with boats, cafés and lively quays.
Ascension de la Dune du Pilat
Climb Europe’s tallest dune for breathtaking Atlantic views (free access to the dune).
Gastronomy
Southwest France is a haven for flavors, from sweet treats to hearty confits and sea treasures.
Canelés
Small vanilla-caramel cakes that pair perfectly with coffee.
Confit de canard et magret
Rich duck dishes that define Gascony’s culinary heritage.
Foie gras
Luxurious liver pâté long associated with the region’s tradition.
Huîtres de Marennes-Oléron
Delicious oysters from the Atlantic coast famed for their briny sweetness.
Nightlife
Evenings glow with wine, music and theatre in Bordeaux and along the coast.
Wine tasting in Bordeaux
Sample renowned Bordeaux wines in intimate cellars and bars.
Cité du Vin
A modern wine culture center offering exhibitions and tastings with a vibrant evening atmosphere.
Jazz and live music in Bordeaux bars
Casual venues and dedicated clubs offer local and visiting acts.
Entertainment
The region hosts world-class performances in historic venues and modern theatres.
Opéra National de Bordeaux
A premier venue offering operas, ballets and classical concerts.
Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux
Elegant historic theatre hosting a variety of performances.
Theatre performances in local venues
Seasonal plays and touring productions across towns.
Sports
Active travelers can ride waves, ride trails and paddle scenic waterways.
Surfing at Lacanau
Renowned Atlantic surf spot with consistent breaks and beach life.
Kayaking on the Dordogne River
Calm river sections perfect for paddling and scenic pauses.
Golf du Médoc & other courses
World-class courses set in vineyards and coastal landscapes.
Off the Track
Go beyond the obvious with cave sites, hill towns and hidden valleys.
Grotte de Lascaux (exact replica sites and adjacent museums)
Ancient cave art sites with insightful reconstructions and exhibits.
Rocamadour
Picturesque hill town built into cliffs with religious shrines and cliffside views.
Sarlat-la-Canéda
Medieval townscape rich in markets, stone streets and family-run eateries.